Clinton Fernandes and Deb Salvagno join Dylan Bird to discuss East Timor’s liberation and the Tais, Culture & Resilience exhibition. Fernandes, Professor of International and Political Studies at the University of NSW, and Deb, founder of East Timor Women Australia (ETWA) explore the nation's struggle under Indonesian rule and its path to independence. The exhibition celebrates Timor-Leste’s culture through the LO'UD women’s weaving cooperative, and also marks the 25th anniversary of Timor-Leste’s independence vote and 20 years of ETWA’s partnership with LO'UD. 

Deb reflected on her initial visit to East Timor, noting its blend of historical scars and hopeful future. “The first time I went, there was definite evidence the occupation was still completely evident, however there was a whole lot of optimism, future projects and hope.”

Photo Credit: ETWA